It all started on a cold Mississippi morning—a red pickup, a dirt road, and one kid in bright white Keds and a shiny new windsuit who thought hopping on Mama’s tailgate was a good idea. Spoiler: it wasn’t. Mama, You Dragged Me—And I’ll Limp to Tell It by Leprinthinya Wilkins is a laugh-out-loud, true-to-life story about childhood pride colliding with southern common sense. One second she’s trying to catch a ride to the bus stop, and the next she’s flapping down a Mississippi dirt road, learning that love sometimes comes with a little road rash. Told with heart, humor, and that unmistakable southern rhythm, this story celebrates the unbreakable bond between a mother and daughter—and the kind of memories that hurt at the time but make you laugh forever. Because sometimes, growing up means getting dragged a little before you learn to stand tall.
Dedication
For my mother -
the proud wife of a veteran,
the woman who could drive a truck, hold a job, raise a family,
and still find time to laugh at my foolishness.
You taught me that pain fades, laughter heals,
and even a Mississippi dirt road can lead to grace.
Every scraped knee, every hard lesson,
every bit of stubborn strength I carry - it all came from you.
Rest easy, Mama.
I finally learned to let go of the tailgate.
- Leprinthinya Wilkins
